Henry “Hank” A. Dodson, age 90, of Kettering, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025, at 10 Wilmington Place, where he had lived with his wife, Shirley, until her passing. He was born on April 19, 1935, in Dayton, Ohio, to the late Henry and Velma Dodson. Henry graduated from Jefferson High School in 1953, served in the U.S. Navy, and later retired from General Motors. He married Shirley Richardson on September 18, 1954, and they shared 70 wonderful years together before her passing in 2024. Henry was deeply involved in both Solar Lodge and Antioch Shrine, held the title of past Master Mason, and achieved the 32nd degree in the Scottish Rite. Notably, he received a heart transplant and thrived for more than 28 years with his new heart. Through Ohio Life Connections and his Lodge, he dedicated many years to traveling across Ohio, raising awareness about organ donation. His passion for history-particularly the World Wars-led him to volunteer as a Tour Guide at the Dayton Air Force Museum for nearly two decades. Additionally, Hank was a devoted lifelong fan of the Cleveland Browns and The Ohio State Buckeyes. Henry is preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Judy, and his beloved wife, Shirley A. Dodson.
He is survived by his loving daughter, Kim Wright, and her husband, Mike, of Dripping Springs, Texas; their sons Corey Wright (and his wife Aimee Ibbotson) and Jacob Wright of Chicago; his devoted son, Randy Dodson, of Kettering; Randy’s daughter Rachel Dodson-Stern and her husband Alex of Miamisburg; great-grandson Rowan Joseph Stern; and brother Samuel Dodson and sister-in-law Lynne of Centerville. A Graveside Service will be held at 10 AM on April 18th, 2026 at David’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Life Connections of Kettering, Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton or Shriners Children’s Ohio in Dayton. Henry will be remembered for his kindness, resilience, and unwavering love for his family. Arrangements entrusted to Baker Hazel & Snider Funeral Home. Online condolences can be left at www.bakerhazelsnider.com.
This obituary was published by Baker-Hazel & Snider Funeral Home and Crematory.
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